The SUBJECT must agree with the VERB!
Rationale: It is important for students to know that the subject must agree with the verb. The purpose of this minilesson is to ensure that students are able to identify the lack of subject/verb agreement used in writing and speech, as well as, be able to create subject/verb agreement by using proper grammar. By exploring sentences and language used in the novel The Outsiders, students will be able to identify the proper sentence structure, which will enhance students writing and language skills.
Objective: To teach students subject-verb agreement.
SWABT: effectively write sentences where the subject agrees with the verb. They will be able to analyze previously written sentences for proper grammar and punctuation. Students will discuss and give examples of subject/verb agreement using their class novel The Outsiders. They will be able to interpret words and phrases as they are used in the text, determine technical meanings, and analyze how specific word choice shape meaning.
Materials: index cards (two different colors), and tape
Time: 50 minutes
Instructional Procedures:

• Introduction (2min): I will start the lesson off by using incorrect language where the subject and the verb do not agree. My hope is that students will recognize the incorrect language and will correct it. The dismantle disruption will serve as the bridge into the minilesson. I will inform students that previously in their writings on the Outsiders novel they used the subject/verb incorrectly.
• Lesson: (3 min)

1. Define subject- is who or what does the verb
2. Define verb- A word which expresses action
3. Does the subject agree with the verb in number? (singular subject- to- singular verb)(plural subject-to-plural verb)
4. Class example (sentences taken from the Outsiders novel)

I. Johnny handed me the knife. (page 72)
II. I knew Johnny understood what I meant (page 121)
III. He was dead before he hit the ground (page 154)

• Activity (7 to 8 min): Students will be given a number of index cards. On each index card (color coded) there will be sentences. One card will have a part of the sentence with the subject, and on another card it will have the other part of the sentence with the verb. Within their groups, students will have to search and find the second half of their sentence. When a student thinks he or she has found a match, the two should come to me (the teacher) so that I can confirm if it is correct or not. After all of the students have completed their sentences, students will be allowed to go to the board and tape up all of their sentences.
• Wrap up (2 min): Once everyone is finished, we will review the sentences as a class (group) and see if the students put the sentences together correctly.
• Writing Workshop (30 min): Students will have the opportunity to revise their Outsiders papers. For each sentence students will be asked to underline the subject and circle the verbs. After students have identified the subject and verb they must ask themselves, “Does the subject agree with the verb?” If it does not, students can change their sentences. This workshop time will be part one of the revision process. As a method of assessment, I will circulate throughout the room observing the students work. I will also independently guide the students through writing conferences.
• Exit Pass (2 min): Students will have to write two things that they learned from today’s lesson. After students have completed their exit passes that will conclude today’s class.
• Bell Ring

Video: Sorry could not upload :(